Cable One, doing business as Sparklight, registered an objection to Missouri-based telecom Conexon Connect setting up shop in its New Orleans, LA neighborhood. Conexon Connect, which partners with rural utility cooperatives to bring high-speed internet service in hard-to-reach communities, sought the grant to address connectivity needs which were not being provided to the residents in East Carroll Parish. As New Orleans City Business reports, the Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity (OBDC) investigated the complaint and determined that Sparklight lacked sufficient proof to challenge a $4 million grant awarded to rival Conexon Connect.
“Sparklight has not established what true speeds are available to its customers and has therefore failed to carry its burden of proof as the protestor,” wrote OBDC Executive Director Vaneeth Iyengar. According to the OBDC, Sparklight was unable to demonstrate that it was able to deliver state minimum digital speeds to its subscribers.
The ruling was hailed as a win by other smaller ISPs and agencies who are working to expand digital outreach to all Louisiana residents. Linda Miliken, speaking on behalf of advocacy group Delta Interfaith, commented, “We applaud the work of Veneeth Iyengar and Louisiana’s broadband office, which has carefully considered the evidence and decided to uphold the grant award.”
Cable One has fifteen days to appeal the decision issued by the OBDC.
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